A rare and protected species of newt has been found in a pond on a Northumberland farm.

The great-crested newt was found (along with two other species of newt, the palmate and the smooth) on National Park land near Hadrian's Wall.

John Steele, species and habitats officer for the Northumberland National Park Authority, said: "This find marks the first-ever record of the great-crested newt in the National Park so it's of real significance.

"These creatures are easily threatened and very vulnerable. As such, they have the highest protection of any creature so it's important that we work closely with the farmer and landowner to help protect and enhance their habitat."

A licensed newt specialist confirmed the sighting and carried out a survey of the pond.

Mr Steele said: "What makes the find more unusual is that the other two species of newts were also found in the same pond, along with toads and probably frogs. That means we could have all five species of native amphibians living in one pond."